When it comes to traveling in Taiwan, Kaohsiung is often overlooked in favor of its more popular counterpart, Taipei. However, this southern city has a lot to offer, from its rich cultural heritage to its delicious street food. And speaking of street food, Kaohsiung has a vibrant food scene that is definitely worth exploring. From traditional Taiwanese dishes to modern fusion cuisine, there’s something for every palate and budget. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through Kaohsiung, highlighting the best places to eat and drink in this charming city.
Traditional Taiwanese Cuisine
When in Kaohsiung, it’s essential to try some traditional Taiwanese dishes. Here are a few must-try options:
- Oyster omelet: A classic Taiwanese dish made with oysters, eggs, and starch, often served with a side of chili sauce.
- Braised pork belly: A popular dish in Taiwan, braised pork belly is slow-cooked in a mixture of soy sauce, sugar, and spices, resulting in tender and flavorful meat.
- Stinky tofu: A fermented tofu dish that’s often served deep-fried and topped with chili sauce, stinky tofu is a love-it-or-hate-it option.
Some of the best places to try these dishes include:
| Restaurant | Address | Must-try dishes |
|---|---|---|
| Lu Rou Fan | No. 12, Ln. 316, Jhongshan 2nd Rd., Lingya Dist. | Braised pork belly, oyster omelet |
| Cheng’s Beef Noodle | No. 12, Ln. 316, Jhongshan 2nd Rd., Lingya Dist. | Beef noodle soup, braised pork belly |
| Shennong Street Night Market | No. 1, Shennong St., Lingya Dist. | Oyster omelet, stinky tofu, braised pork belly |
Modern Fusion Cuisine
While traditional Taiwanese cuisine is delicious, Kaohsiung also offers a range of modern fusion options that blend traditional flavors with international influences. Here are a few must-try options:
- Korean-Taiwanese fusion: Try Korean-style BBQ with a Taiwanese twist at restaurants like Ah-Chan’s Korean BBQ.
- Japanese-Taiwanese fusion: Visit restaurants like Sushi Kanpai for a range of sushi options with a Taiwanese twist.
- Vegan and vegetarian options: Kaohsiung has a growing vegan and vegetarian scene, with options like Vegan Cafe and Green Cafe.
Some of the best places to try modern fusion cuisine include: (See Also: Where to Eat in Clark Freeport Zone? Best Dining Options)
| Restaurant | Address | Must-try dishes |
|---|---|---|
| Ah-Chan’s Korean BBQ | No. 12, Ln. 316, Jhongshan 2nd Rd., Lingya Dist. | Korean-style BBQ, kimchi fried rice |
| Sushi Kanpai | No. 12, Ln. 316, Jhongshan 2nd Rd., Lingya Dist. | Sushi, sashimi, miso soup |
| Vegan Cafe | No. 1, Shennong St., Lingya Dist. | Vegan burgers, vegan pizza, quinoa salad |
Coffee and Dessert
After a day of exploring Kaohsiung, there’s nothing like a good cup of coffee or a sweet treat to cap off the day. Here are a few must-try options:
- Coffee: Visit cafes like Cafe 39 or 85°C Bakery Cafe for a range of coffee options.
- Dessert: Try traditional Taiwanese desserts like bubble tea or shaved ice at places like Chatime or Ah-Chan’s Dessert.
Some of the best places to try coffee and dessert include:
| Restaurant | Address | Must-try dishes |
|---|---|---|
| Cafe 39 | No. 12, Ln. 316, Jhongshan 2nd Rd., Lingya Dist. | Coffee, latte, cappuccino |
| 85°C Bakery Cafe | No. 12, Ln. 316, Jhongshan 2nd Rd., Lingya Dist. | Coffee, pastries, sandwiches |
| Chatime | No. 1, Shennong St., Lingya Dist. | Bubble tea, shaved ice, fruit smoothies |
Street Food and Night Markets
Street food and night markets are a big part of the Kaohsiung food scene. Here are a few must-try options:
- Shennong Street Night Market: This night market is a must-visit for any foodie, with a range of street food options from oyster omelets to stinky tofu.
- Lingya Night Market: Another popular night market, Lingya offers a range of street food options, including Taiwanese desserts and snacks.
- Rueifang Street Food: This street food market offers a range of options, from traditional Taiwanese dishes to modern fusion cuisine.
Some of the best places to try street food and night markets include:
| Location | Address | Must-try dishes |
|---|---|---|
| Shennong Street Night Market | No. 1, Shennong St., Lingya Dist. | Oyster omelet, stinky tofu, braised pork belly |
| Lingya Night Market | No. 1, Lingya Rd., Lingya Dist. | Taiwanese desserts, snacks, and street food |
| Rueifang Street Food | No. 1, Rueifang St., Zuoying Dist. | Traditional Taiwanese dishes, modern fusion cuisine |
Recap
In this article, we’ve explored the best places to eat and drink in Kaohsiung, from traditional Taiwanese cuisine to modern fusion options. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic or something new, Kaohsiung has something for every palate and budget. Here are some key takeaways: (See Also: Where to Eat in Walla Walla? Best Local Favorites)
- Try traditional Taiwanese dishes like oyster omelets and braised pork belly at restaurants like Lu Rou Fan and Cheng’s Beef Noodle.
- Explore modern fusion cuisine at restaurants like Ah-Chan’s Korean BBQ and Sushi Kanpai.
- Visit coffee and dessert shops like Cafe 39 and Chatime for a sweet treat.
- Explore street food and night markets like Shennong Street Night Market and Lingya Night Market for a range of options.
FAQs
Q: What is the best way to get around Kaohsiung?
A: Kaohsiung has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses and metro lines. You can also take a taxi or ride-hailing service like Uber or Grab.
Q: What is the best time to visit Kaohsiung?
A: Kaohsiung is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild and comfortable.
Q: What are some must-try dishes in Kaohsiung?
A: Some must-try dishes in Kaohsiung include oyster omelets, braised pork belly, and stinky tofu. You should also try some of the modern fusion cuisine options like Korean-Taiwanese fusion and Japanese-Taiwanese fusion.
Q: Are there any vegetarian or vegan options in Kaohsiung?
A: Yes, Kaohsiung has a growing vegetarian and vegan scene, with options like Vegan Cafe and Green Cafe. You can also find vegetarian and vegan options at night markets and street food stalls. (See Also: Where to Eat in Weatherford Tx? Top Local Favorites)
Q: Can I drink tap water in Kaohsiung?
A: It’s generally safe to drink tap water in Kaohsiung, but it’s always a good idea to check with your hotel or a local to confirm. You can also stick to bottled water or filtered water as a precaution.